Fireplace Awareness

 As we approach the winter months, heating systems will begin to kick on and energy bills will start to climb. While some will depend on the fireplace to take away the extra chill, many fireplaces are reserved for special occasions and will remain inactive for much of the winter season. Metal chimney dampers are typically used to prevent heat loss when fireplaces are not in use. Unfortunately, most chimney dampers are not air-tight and begin to warp over time. This creates a path for warm air within the home to escape out of the chimney. Now is the time to educate homeowners on clever ways to keep the home warm in the winter without spending more than they need to. One product that can make this transition easier is the inflatable chimney balloon.

A chimney balloon is an inflatable air barrier designed to minimize air leakage through the stack over a fireplace. This area is a common challenge to keeping the home comfortable. The chimney balloon is a low-cost measure that can be easily installed and reused hundreds of times. They should be sized to fit securely beneath the home’s fireplace flue. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends having these balloon inserts installed by a certified professional as an inexpensive solution to aging chimney dampers. Effective chimney balloons are made from durable plastics and can be easily removed by a cord that hangs down into the fireplace. A tag should be attached to the cord to remind homeowners that the flue is blocked. In the case that a homeowner forgets to remove the insert, a certified chimney balloon will automatically deflate within seconds of coming into contact with heat. Please consider educating your customers on this low-cost option to help them stay comfortable this winter!